Outcome: Dismissed
MAR052026_03B5203
Our summary
A software engineer and systems researcher sought an NIW for autonomous vehicle research. The AAO found substantial merit in the proposed endeavor but dismissed the appeal because the petitioner failed to demonstrate he was well positioned to advance it, lacking evidence of progress or external support.
Official PDF
Official PDF ↗Published by USCIS. The summary is ours, in our own words; the decision text is on uscis.gov.
What the AAO accepted
- Merit and national importance · AAO agreed proposed endeavor has substantial merit
What was missing
- Well positioned · Lacks sufficient progress toward endeavor and evidence of customer or investor interest
Criteria
| Criterion | Reading | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Met | AAO agreed proposed endeavor has substantial merit | |
| Not met | Lacks sufficient progress toward endeavor and evidence of customer or investor interest | |
| Not reached / not discussed | Second prong failed; third prong not reached |
A published decision describes one case. It is not legal advice and not a prediction for yours.
